Gerontology Specialty

The fastest growing segment of the population is over the age of 65 years. The study of gerontology involves many different fields including psychology, biology and sociology. Gerontology tries to answer questions about why we are more vulnerable to disease and mental changes as we age, and the role and importance social interaction plays in our lives. USI’s health services degree with a gerontology specialty starts with a solid foundation in understanding aging, health, and health care delivery to the older population. You’ll embark on understanding the social, psychological and biological aspects of aging. At USI you’ll have the opportunity to do experiential learning in an internship that provides real-world experience. This real-work experience will allow you to understand the network of services available to the older population, and to develop and understand yourself.

A variety of career options are available with a degree in gerontology including a geriatric care manager wellness coordinator, admissions or marketing director, activities director, and education or volunteer coordinator. With people living longer and the population of people over the age of 65 years growing, we are gaining a better understanding of the needs of the older population. These needs have expanded career opportunities in gerontology in government, private and non-for-profit organizations.

Other Emphases

Health Services - Generalist Option

Major

Health Services - Health Promotion & Worksite Wellness Specialty

Major

Health Services - Degree Completion Option

Major

Health Services - Public Health Specialty

Major

120

Credit Hours

Related Minor

Related Certificates

Student Handbook

Incoming Students

Start Date:

January 13, 2025

Registration Deadline:

January 09, 2025
Start Date:

August 18, 2025

Registration Deadline:

August 13, 2025
Start Date:

January 12, 2026

Registration Deadline:

January 08, 2026
Start Date:

August 17, 2026

Registration Deadline:

August 12, 2026
Start Date:

January 11, 2027

Registration Deadline:

January 07, 2027

College & Department Contacts

Dr. Erin M. Reynolds

Associate Professor of Health Services Administration

Chair of Health Services

Career Outlook

Evansville Regional Data National Data

The national career outlook for someone majoring in health services with a gerontology specialty is generally quite positive. Gerontology is the study of aging, and with the aging population in many countries, there is an increasing demand for professionals with expertise in this area.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of medical and health services managers is projected to grow 28 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations. About 54,700 openings for medical and health services managers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

Overall, the demand for professionals in gerontology is expected to remain strong as the population continues to age, creating diverse opportunities for those with a background in health services with a gerontology specialty.

Evansville Regional Data National Data

Top Regional Occupations by Income

*income information provided by O*NET Online. Occupation opportunities vary by region and experience.

The University of Southern Indiana is committed to making college accessible to those wishing to further their education by providing numerous scholarships, grants, and financial aid options to assist students in managing tuition expenses.

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